Hypertension medication refers to pharmacological treatment plans used to control blood pressure, primarily aiming to reduce arterial blood pressure to decrease long-term damage to organs such as the heart, brain, and kidneys. These medications work through different mechanisms to help patients keep systolic and diastolic pressures within normal ranges, thereby reducing the risk of complications like myocardial infarction and stroke. Treatment typically combines medication with lifestyle modifications and should be individualized based on the patient's age, medical history, and comorbidities.
Hypertension medications can be divided into five main categories:
These drugs are mainly used for primary hypertension, especially when lifestyle modifications (such as salt restriction and exercise) are insufficient to control blood pressure. They are often combined with other medications to enhance efficacy; for example, patients with diabetes or kidney disease may be prioritized for ACEI or ARB therapy. Additionally, some classes like beta-blockers have auxiliary roles in patients with heart failure or angina.
Most medications are taken once or twice daily orally, but specific doses should be adjusted based on patient response. For instance, diuretics may be taken in the morning to reduce nocturnal urination, while CCBs are recommended to be taken at fixed times to maintain stable drug levels. Special populations such as the elderly or those with renal impairment require lower starting doses and regular monitoring of blood pressure and biochemical parameters. Medications should not be discontinued abruptly; dose adjustments should be made under medical supervision gradually.
Main benefits include:
Possible side effects include:
Contraindications: ACEI/ARB are contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm. Patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment or metabolic abnormalities should avoid specific medications. Patients should note:
Using diuretics with other antihypertensives may increase electrolyte disturbances; combining with NSAIDs (such as Ibuprofen) may reduce drug efficacy. When using alpha-blockers, caution is needed for orthostatic hypotension. Patients should proactively inform their doctors of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements they are taking.
Clinical trials show that monotherapy often requires dose adjustments for effectiveness, with approximately 70% of patients needing two or more drugs in combination. Long-term follow-up indicates that effective blood pressure control can reduce cardiovascular events by 30-50%. Drug choice should be based on patient-specific risk factors; for example, patients with heart failure are prioritized for beta-blockers and ACEIs.
Non-pharmacological treatments include:
What should I do if I experience dizziness or itching after taking antihypertensive medication?
If mild dizziness or skin discomfort occurs, first confirm whether it is an initial side effect of the medication, which usually diminishes after a few weeks. If symptoms are severe or persist, discontinue the medication immediately and contact your doctor for dose adjustment or medication change. It is advisable to rise slowly to avoid orthostatic hypotension and regularly monitor blood pressure changes.
Are there specific foods to avoid during antihypertensive treatment?
During medication, limit high-sodium foods (such as processed and pickled foods) to enhance drug efficacy, and reduce high-fat and high-sugar foods to prevent atherosclerosis. Increasing dietary fiber intake, such as whole grains and fresh vegetables, and controlling daily water intake are recommended. Alcohol consumption should be moderated as it can interfere with drug metabolism.
Is it necessary to regularly check liver and kidney function during long-term antihypertensive therapy?
Yes. Some antihypertensive drugs may impose a long-term burden on liver and kidney function. Blood biochemical tests are recommended every 3-6 months. The doctor will adjust the testing frequency based on age and underlying conditions. Patients should actively follow up and report any discomfort to ensure medication safety.
If I forget to take my medication, should I take a double dose the next day?
Never take a double dose. Doing so may cause hypotension or organ damage. If close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume normal dosing at the next scheduled time. Using pill organizers or setting reminders can help establish a regular medication routine and prevent omissions.
Can I stop or reduce my medication once my blood pressure has normalized after treatment?
Absolutely not! Blood pressure stabilization is the result of medication effects. Stopping medication abruptly can lead to rebound hypertension, increasing stroke risk. Dose adjustments should only be made after 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and assessment by a physician, based on the degree of vascular sclerosis and organ damage. Do not make decisions based solely on subjective symptoms.
%201.svg)
Copyright © 2025 MedFrontiers. All Rights Reserved.
